Super fundraiser Mark who was diagnosed with breast cancer hands over cheque to Peterborough hospital

A man who was diagnosed with breast cancer has handed over a cheque for thousands of pounds to Peterborough City Hospital.

Super fundraiser Mark Cross attended Peterborough City Hospital with his wife Kim and his Nan, Jackie Healey to present Dr Karen McAdam, Consultant Oncologist, with a cheque for £6,000. This brings the total amount he has donated to the Oncology Unit at Peterborough City Hospital to a massive £36,329.

In September 2009 Mark was diagnosed with breast cancer and underwent a mastectomy and a further operation to remove the lymph nodes from under his left arm. He was then introduced to Dr McAdam and her caring team. Mark subsequently completed seven months of chemotherapy at Peterborough and three weeks of radiotherapy at Addenbrookes Hospital in 2010.

Mark said, “It was during my chemotherapy that I witnessed first-hand the incredible job that all who work in the Oncology Department do. They work with compassion, care and were always there for me to offer advice and listen to all of my concerns. There is no doubt that the care and treatment I have received saved my life. Having completed my treatment, I felt I had to do something to say thank you.”

For the past six years, Mark has organised, along with the support of family and friends, an annual ‘Cancer Darts Charity Fun Day’ at the GER Sports & Social Club in March, Cambridgeshire. The event involves all generations of darts players and non-darts players alike, from teenagers to over 70’s.

Mark said, “A very supportive group of friends makes the running of the event so successful. Even my Nan has run a tombola stall for the past three years, and she turns 92 very soon! The event is superbly supported with 108 dart players playing in the competitions this year and many more attending to support the event.”

Dr Karen McAdam said, “Mark and his entire family have been absolutely amazing in their enthusiasm and dedication to raise money for local cancer research. We owe each of them a big debt of gratitude.”